The talk: Washington’s latest words of wisdom to Holland

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Texas Rangers manager Ron Washington usually makes the first trip to
the mound for only one pitcher: left-hander Derek Holland. Washington’s
words had a delayed effect during Friday night’s 3-2 win at Seattle.

In the fourth inning of a scoreless game, Holland walked Jesus
Montero to put two runners on and went to a 2-0 count on Kyle Seager.
During the walk to Montero, Holland ignored Casper Wells at first,
allowing him to steal second without a throw.

At that point, Washington made his visit.

In the past, these talks have ranged from a tongue-lashing to a story
that lifted the tension. This time, Washington kept it simple.

“I just told him to take a deep breath and do what you need do to get out of this innning,” Washington said.

Holland responded with two more balls to walk Seager and load the
bases with one out. At that point, Washington had right-hander Tanner
Scheppers begin warming up in the bullpen.

It was a false alarm. Holland got the key out when Justin Smoak, the
former Rangers’ prospect who is hitting .203, popped up to the infield
on a full-count fastball. Miguel Olivo flied out to right for the
inning-ending out.

“Wash said a few things, nothing crazy like one of his sayings,”
Holland said. “He kept me in the zone and got my focus back out there
and made sure I made my pitches when I needed to.”

Holland pitched 3 2/3 more innings, allowing only two more baserunners.